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NYC to install 21,000 door alarms in schools

June 05, 2015

The New York Department of Education announced they are installing 21,000 audible door alarms at New York City schools in order to prevent another tragedy like the 2013 disappearance of 14-year-old Avonte Oquendo.

The alarms will be in place by the end of 2015, Deputy Schools Chancellor Elizabeth Rose said.

"Schools will all have security and be safe for our students," Rose said.

This announcement by the DOE is an important step toward keeping individuals with autism safe at school. It is also critical that the entire school community be trained on autism and taught effective ways to prevent and respond to wandering incidents.

Autism Speaks is providing training opportunities for schools, first responders and other organizations to promote the safety of all people with autism. Email us at outreach@autismspeaks.org to learn more.